CHADDERTON PARK

FOOTBALL CLUB

Under 9’s Lions

Chadderton Park Lions VLittle LeverAway Date : 17.01.09

Team

Alex Knight, Callum Pollard, George Lengden,

Lewis Unwin, Joe Gregory, Josef Rimmer,

Ethan Rigney, Luke Smith, Andrew Gregory, Rhys Chorlton.

A longer than usual Christmas break due to bad weather, saw Chadderton Park Lions return for their first game of the new year bursting to play. Little Lever had been easily rolled over earlier in the season, but the boys were aware that teams can improve quickly, which proved to be the case.

A bright start was made and we took an early lead in the game, followed quickly by a second. At 3-0 it seemed as though it was going to be another straight forward match, but a goal by Little Lever just before the end of the first half, reminded them they were in a game.

Captain Callum Pollard walked off at half time, relieved to have scored his first goal of the season. It should have come two minutes earlier than it did, but our work on defensive heading seemed to be in his mind as he went up for a corner and headed over from 3 yards! Typically, he carried on with a smile on his face and was rewarded minutes later.

The second half began with two dubious free kicks awarded against The Lions from which Little Lever scored a second, and put the game back in the balance. Chadderton reacted well and immediately found another gear. They broke with speed and skill down the flanks and some superb running from Josef Rimmer and Luke Smith resulted directly in two more goals. Lewis Unwin was a constant threat and Ethan Rigney, getting more confident with each match, created and scored a brilliantly crafted goal from a surging run. Alex was off his line with great judgement to thwart Little Lever on several occasions and George Lengden was typically brave in the tackle. Andrew and Rhys slotted into their positions well when called upon and passed the ball well.

Overall, a great team performance with some room for improvement, although I’ll put that down to Christmas rust! A man of the match performance from Josef Rimmer, displaying good skill on the ball, powerful wing play and unselfish distribution was rewarded with the coveted trophy. Next week, it’s Radcliffe Juniors away.

Final score Won 7 : 3

Scorers : Josef Rimmer 2 , Ethan Rigney 2, Lewis Unwin, Luke Smith, Callum Pollard.

Man of match : Josef Rimmer

Lenny.